5 days ago
Celebrating 60 years of nation building, 25 years of our Expand journey
SINCE its founding in 2000, Expand Construction has grown in tandem with Singapore's continued transformation, rising from a one-man startup into one of the nation's leading homegrown names in the built environment. Its progress reflects the country's own bold and forward-looking development.
At the heart of Expand's growth is a distinctive planning model structured around 15-year cycles, known internally as 'GSS'. The first cycle (2000 to 2015) focused on Growth, Strength and Sustainability, echoing Singapore's priorities during that period of nation-building. The current cycle, spanning 2016 to 2030, is centred on becoming Great, enabling Succession and achieving Stability. This approach has enabled Expand to contribute meaningfully to Singapore's changing landscape while preparing for the future.
2000-2015: Expand's first 15-year cycle of GSS
2000-2005: Growth
From a humble start to a foothold in the industry
Started by Von Lee as a one-man operation in 2000, Expand Construction entered the built environment sector at a time when Singapore's older HDB estates were being refreshed under the government's main upgrading programme (MUP).
Expand was able to contribute to this key national initiative, helping to upgrade the homes and lives of Singaporeans while gaining a foothold in the industry. Survival hinged on hard work, calculated risks, and winning tenders by outbidding the lowest bidder, a bold move that paid off. These early years were about proving Expand's ability to deliver, no matter the odds.
2006-2010: Strength
A period of proving capability and earning trust
In the 2000s, Singapore set out to create a new kind of urban green space, and Gardens by the Bay would become a landmark project that would reshape the Marina Bay skyline and reflect the country's focus on innovation and sustainability. At the heart of this landmark development were the towering Supertrees, which would go on to become one of Singapore's most recognisable symbols.
LionGrove Supertrees.
It was during this pivotal period that Expand, focused on building trust and a solid track record, earned the opportunity to contribute to the national vision. Guided by the values of continual pursuit of excellence and consistently earning the trust and support of clients, consultants, sub-contractors, and suppliers, the company secured two milestone projects: the Supertrees and the Energy Centre at Gardens by the Bay. These were defining moments that elevated Expand's profile.
2011-2015: Sustainability
Turning experience into systems built to last
In the early 2010s, Singapore ramped up the development of HDB Build-To-Order (BTO) flats to meet rising demand for public housing. This national effort required dependable contractors who could deliver large-scale projects efficiently while maintaining high standards.
Fernvale Vines was awarded the HDB Construction Award 2024.
It was against this backdrop that Expand took a significant step forward. As the company matured, so did its ambitions. It launched a new vision: 'To be a World-class Builder, with World-class Professionals.' In 2011, the company achieved A1 status under the CW01 Building category and clinched its first HDB BTO contract in Punggol West worth S$157.6 million. By 2013, it had begun systematically building a strong internal talent pool, positioning itself for long-term resilience.
Expand was awarded the BCA Construction Excellence Award 2013.
2016-2030: Expand's second 15-year cycle of GSS
2016-2020: Great
Defined by values, strengthened by safety
When Covid-19 hit in 2020, Singapore's construction sector was among the hardest hit. Projects were halted, timelines disrupted, and some contractors were unable to carry on. In the midst of this uncertainty, Expand stepped up to complete a housing project that had been left unfulfilled by another contractor. Going above and beyond to deliver under challenging conditions, the company was recognised with a Resilience Award from HDB for its efforts.
Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum.
This commitment to responsibility reflected a broader vision that had been set in motion years earlier. The next chapter for Expand was not only about growing in size, but about becoming a 'Great' company defined by values and a deep commitment to safety. The company introduced a new safety slogan: 'Nothing is more urgent or important than working safely'.
Hillock Eco-bridge.
In 2018, Expand also made its first major foray into infrastructure with a S$101.8 million project at Changi Naval Base. The experience and systems built during that phase enabled the company to respond effectively during the pandemic.
Launching of Von Lee Yong Miang's SUTD Bursary on Oct 10, 2019.
2021-2025: Succession
Shaping the next generation of leadership
As Singapore entered a period of leadership transition in the early 2020s, Expand too began preparing its next generation of leaders. Succession planning took centre stage, with senior leaders mentoring upcoming talent to ensure continuity and preserve the company's core values.
Punggol Waterway Sunrise II was awarded the HDB Resilience Award 2024.
At the same time, the team worked tirelessly to navigate pandemic aftershocks, supply chain disruptions and labour constraints. By 2023, the foundations for leadership renewal were firmly in place.
Singtel Waterfront Theatre.
In 2024, Expand began operating on a dual-engine model to keep its building arm strong while expanding its infrastructure capabilities. The milestone achievement of CW02 A1 Civil status in December 2024 marked a new level of capability for the firm. Expand also began investing in AI and digital tools to further strengthen its readiness for the future.
Minister of State Dinesh and MOM officers site visit to NS Square on June 16, 2025.
2026-2030: Stability
Securing the next chapter with confidence
As Singapore continues to plan for long-term resilience in a fast-changing world, Expand is also looking ahead too. The years ahead will focus on strengthening leadership continuity and ensuring long-term stability.
Construction of NS Square @Marina Bay, target to complete in 2027.
As the company transitions into the hands of its second-generation leadership, it is sharpening its capabilities in AI, robotics and computational construction methods. The goal is to future-proof the business while remaining steady, sustainable and people-centred.
